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How Do I Get into Textile Engineering?

Patrick Lynch
Patrick Lynch

If you are looking to get into textile engineering, you must first be willing to spend time in college to gain a bachelor’s or master’s degree. Those involved in textile engineering must have knowledge of various mathematical and design principles. You need to be prepared to find an internship while still in college. If you are hoping to become a textile engineer, you must also have a genuine interest in design and mechanics. In some countries, you may also be asked to complete an exam which ensures that you understand the basics of engineering.

The duties of a textile engineer include designing tools and other types of mechanical equipment. You will also be responsible for repairing various types of equipment such as water, heat, gas, and steam systems. Textile engineering is considered to be part of a wider mechanical engineering discipline.

A finished textile.
A finished textile.

There are many high quality textile engineering programs to choose from. Expect to spend at least four years in college when getting your bachelor’s and master’s degrees. While working on your bachelor’s degree, you will be asked to study a variety of subjects relating to textile engineering, including machine design, information systems design, chemical processing, and textile product engineering. You will be required to study machine and wet process design as well as plant design during your master’s degree program.

A closeup of satin cloth.
A closeup of satin cloth.

To be a textile engineer, you need to have a strong working knowledge of engineering science and technology. This includes the application of procedures and techniques used in producing and designing the relevant goods and services. You should also know a great deal about mathematics, including geometry and algebra, as well as physics, including sub-atomic structures and processes. The ability to and repair faulty machines is also useful.

Polyester fabric.
Polyester fabric.

You should gain work experience, in the form of an internship, while completing your university degree. Bear in mind that over half those who become textile engineers have completed at least one internship by the time they finish their degree program. This means you must also be committed to work experience so that you do not fall behind.

In certain countries, you may be asked to pass a fundamentals of engineering exam. The purpose of this examination is to ensure that those who enter the field of textile engineering have the level of competence necessary to be involved in the engineering profession. You should also continue to remain up to date with the latest technology in the field of textile engineering, it changes very quickly.

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    • A finished textile.
      By: sootra
      A finished textile.
    • A closeup of satin cloth.
      By: klikk
      A closeup of satin cloth.
    • Polyester fabric.
      By: Silvia Crisman
      Polyester fabric.
    • A folded square of linen.
      By: Viktor
      A folded square of linen.
    • Textile engineers must be familiar with weaving machines.
      By: onizu3d
      Textile engineers must be familiar with weaving machines.